Preheat oven to 180°C. Line base and sides of a 7cm-deep, 10.5cm x 20.5cm (base) loaf pan with baking paper, allowing a 2cm overhang at both long ends.

Step 4

Using electric beaters, cream butter, caster sugar and vanilla in a bowl until pale and creamy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 5

Sift flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice over butter mixture. Using a large metal spoon, fold in flour mixture, remaining 1/2 cup buttermilk and prune mixture, 1 at a time. Spoon into prepared pan. Sprinkle crumble over loaf. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool loaf in pan for 10 minutes. Lift onto a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with cream.